Ways to win for WT - and Winston-Salem State

Winston-Salem State quarterback Kameron Smith will present a big challenge for the West Texas A&M defense.

Here are three ways that each team can win or lose in today’s NCAA Division II football semifinal game at 5:30 CST in Winston-Salem, N.C., between West Texas A&M and Winston-Salem State.

Winston-Salem State Rams (13-0)

1. Dominate with the passing game. Kameron Smith can do what he’s been doing all season, which is shred opposing defenses with a mix of yardage-eating out plays and deep bombs to his telented corps of wideouts. West Texas A&M has lost every game this season in which its opponent has scored more than 30 points. If the game turns into a shootout, the advantage goes to the explosive Rams offense.

2. Come up big on special teams. The Buffaloes have shown a vulnerability on special teams, particularly on punting downs, where WT has given up big returns and had its own punts blocked. There’ll be a chess match going on in punting situations, with each team’s coaches choosing whether to prioritize the block attempt or the return.

3. Force turnovers. WT doesn’t turn the ball over much, but they have given up turnovers at inopportune times this season. In a game between two strong opponents where the team with the least errors will likely walk off the field with the win, an interception or fumble might make the difference.

West Texas A&M Buffaloes (12-2)

1. Run, Khiry, run! The Buffs can win when Robinson is contained — as he was in most of the Ashland game — but WT is a different team when Robinson is keeping defenses aware of his presence and potential. If WT can keep the Rams worried about Robinson on third downs, that can open up opportunities for WT’s receivers.

2. Treat ‘em like slalom poles. There are a number of one-on-one matchups on both sides of the ball where the Buffs are at a size disadvantage. In those situations, WT would do well to find a way around rather than a way through. This applies particularly to WT’s defensive linemen and wide receivers.

3. Stop the big play. Winston-Salem’s play-calling doesn’t always go by the book, so WT must be ready to react after the snap and shift gears on the fly. If the Buffaloes get caught flat-footed, they could be on the wrong end of some momentum-shifting — and scoreboard-changing — big plays.